The Washington Commanders do not have the luxury of underestimating the Arizona Cardinals. Or anyone else, for that matter. Especially in the first two months of a Ron Rivera-led season. Arizona might have its mind on Caleb Williams’ highlights, but Washington needs to focus on what’s right in front of them.<\/p>\n
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The Cardinals, having lost their starting quarterback (Kyler Murray) to an ACL tear and their backup (Colt McCoy) to the chopping block, are destined for a difficult season. They are the early favorites for the 2024 first-overall pick.<\/span><\/p>\n Thus, it is a good first game to get Sam Howell’s feet wet. Arizona head coach Jonathan Gannon has refused to name a replacement starter, citing a competitive advantage, but newly-acquired Joshua Dobbs is expected to get the nod.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Two weeks ago, Dobbs was fighting for the Cleveland Browns<\/a> backup quarterback job. And he was losing. Fifth-round rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson<\/a> leapfrogged Dobbs on the depth chart and won over the hearts of the organization.<\/span><\/p>\n Now, Dobbs finds himself in a new battle with another fifth-round rookie: former Houston quarterback Clayton Tune<\/a>. Neither option is particularly daunting. But regardless of who gets the start, there should be no excuses for Washington.<\/span><\/p>\n Sources: The #AZCardinals<\/a> are expected have Josh Dobbs as their starting QB this week, with rookie Clayton Tune getting backup reps. They\u2019ll evaluate the situation each week, but this is how it begins. pic.twitter.com\/eXqXUFj7qv<\/a><\/p>\n — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 6, 2023<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n